Is it getting hot in here, or is it just the fashion? For Houstonians, it is both. Spring is the time to trade those Ugg boots and cropped puffer coats for brighter hues and lightweight fabrics. This season, the spring and summer runways are full of animal prints that went viral on TikTok as the "mob wife aesthetic," statement belts, billowing layered looks using lightweight fabrics, and the return of the pencil skirt.

The quiet luxury or stealth wealth trend is sticking around. Savvy shoppers are buying pieces that will not only hold their value but can be reused for several seasons, making micro trends less appealing.

For those ready to jump on spring fashions, we turned to Houston stylist Paulina Padilla, who has years of experience working with Houston fashion brands to bring their looks to life. For the spring season, she chose several versatile looks that can be mixed and matched with other basics for a lasting capsule wardrobe.

"Spring is a time of freshness and new beginnings, and with all the fashionable selections on the racks right now, it's the perfect time for a closet refresh," said Padilla. "Also, I know I can't be the only one who gets excited when the weather warms up enough to bring out sandals for the season."

From icy blue hues, romantic florals, and lightweight or "air con" materials, here are Padilla's choices for springtime essentials in Houston.

Essential Item: Mirth Providence Dress in Powder

Where to buy: mirthcaftans.com or the Mirth Showroom in Houston

Why we love it: Pastels are the go-to colors for spring, and this season, the choices include peach, lilac, butter yellow, and glacial blue. The beautiful details make this dress a standout. The sweetheart neckline, bow front tie, and the soft powder color scream spring, and it can be dressed up or down for dinners, beach vacations, or a backyard barbecue.

The details and lightweight fabric make this dress from Houston brand Mirth a must-have for spring. Photo courtesy of Mirth

Essential Item: Christy Lynn Rosario Top & Shorts in Waterlily Pink

Where to buy: christylynn.com or Christy Lynn boutique in Houston

Why we love it: Matching sets are a chic look for summer. They can be worn together, separately, or used to mix and match with other pieces. Houston-based designer Christy Lynn Lee is known for her floral prints, and this one is simply gorgeous.

"Air con" or lightweight, sheer material is an essential for Houston's warm spring weather. Photo courtesy of Christy Lynn Collection

Essential Item: Veronica Beard V-Link Bucket Bag in Indigo

Where to buy: veronicabeard.com or Veronica Beard in River Oaks District

Why we love it: Veronica Beard recently launched its handbag collection this spring, and the denim bucket bag is so fun. The bag is trimmed with white leather, which makes it neutral enough to pair with other colors.

Icy blue is one of the "it" colors for spring. Photo courtesy of Veronica Beard

Essential Item: Freya Redwood Hat in White

Where to buy: thefreyabrand.com or the Freya boutique in Houston

Why we love it: The brim of this hat is wider, making it great for sun coverage in the Bayou City or spring travels. The white goes with everything, so it's easy to throw on and go. It's definitely a seasonal must-have.

Get coverage and beauty with a hat from Houston's Freya brand. Photo courtesy of Freya.

Essential Item: Larroude Milan Slide Sandal in Natural

Where to buy: nordstrom.com or Nordstrom Houston Galleria

Why we love it: The geometric hardware makes this sandal look more elevated, and Larroude makes very comfortable shoes for all-day wear. Unlike many slides of the same style, this particular sandal has a memory foam cushion.

Larroude's slides can be dressed up or down and are comfortable to wear all day. Photo courtesy of Larroude

  

Photo courtesy of Paulina Padilla

Houston fashion maven Paulina Padilla dishes on her five favorite picks for spring.